Football lovers across the globe and Nigeria’s soccer community have been thrown into mourning for the death of former Super Eagles goalkeeper and 1994 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) champion, Peter Rufai.
Rufai, fondly known as Dodo Mayana, passed on Thursday after a brief illness at 61.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) confirmed the passing of the football legend in a post on Thursday via its official X handle.
“Forever in our hearts, Dodo Mayana. We mourn the passing of legendary Super Eagles goalkeeper Peter Rufai, a giant of Nigerian football and a 1994 African Cup of Nations champion.
“Your legacy lives on between the sticks and beyond. Rest well, Peter Rufai,” the tribute read.
Fondly known as Dodo Mayana, Rufai made 65 appearances for the national team and was part of the golden generation that lifted Nigeria’s second AFCON title in Tunisia in 1994.
He also represented the country at the 1994 and 1998 FIFA World Cup tournaments.
